Numbers 6:3

KJV

He shall separate [himself] from wine and strong drink, and shall drink no vinegar of wine, or vinegar of strong drink, neither shall he drink any liquor of grapes, nor eat moist grapes, or dried.

KJV (with Strong's)

He shall separate {H5144} himself from wine {H3196} and strong drink {H7941}, and shall drink {H8354} no vinegar {H2558} of wine {H3196}, or vinegar {H2558} of strong drink {H7941}, neither shall he drink {H8354} any liquor {H4952} of grapes {H6025}, nor eat {H398} moist {H3892} grapes {H6025}, or dried {H3002}.

Complete Jewish Bible

he is to abstain from wine and other intoxicating liquor, he is not to drink vinegar from either source, he is not to drink grape juice, and he is not to eat grapes or raisins.

Berean Standard Bible

he is to abstain from wine and strong drink. He must not drink vinegar made from wine or strong drink, and he must not drink any grape juice or eat fresh grapes or raisins.

American Standard Version

he shall separate himself from wine and strong drink; he shall drink no vinegar of wine, or vinegar of strong drink, neither shall he drink any juice of grapes, nor eat fresh grapes or dried.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Numbers 6:3 is a pivotal verse within the Mosaic Law, meticulously detailing the dietary prohibitions for an individual undertaking the Nazarite vow. This verse mandates complete abstinence from all products derived from the grape vine, including fermented beverages like wine and strong drink, as well as grape vinegar, grape juice, and even fresh or dried grapes. This comprehensive restriction underscores the profound level of separation, dedication, and consecration required for the Nazarite, setting them apart for a special period of devotion to God.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Numbers 6:3 is an integral part of the larger passage in [Numbers 6](/numbers/6 "Numbers Chapter 6 - The Law of the Nazarite"), which outlines the specific regulations for the Nazarite vow. The preceding verses, [Numbers 6:1-2](/numbers/6-1 "Numbers 6:1-2 - Introduction to the Nazarite Vow"), introduce the concept of a voluntary vow of separation to the Lord, open to both men and women. Following this verse, [Numbers 6:4](/numbers/6-4 "Numbers 6:4 - Further Restrictions on the Nazarite") continues to elaborate on the dietary restrictions, prohibiting anything made from the grapevine, "from the kernels even to the husk." Subsequent verses detail other aspects of the vow, such as abstaining from cutting one's hair ([Numbers 6:5](/numbers/6-5 "Numbers 6:5 - The Nazarite's Hair")) and avoiding contact with the dead ([Numbers 6:6-7](/numbers/6-6 "Numbers 6:6-7 - Avoiding Defilement for the Nazarite")), all contributing to the Nazarite's unique state of holiness and separation. The chapter concludes with instructions for the completion of the vow and the associated sacrifices ([Numbers 6:13-21](/numbers/6-13 "Numbers 6:13-21 - Ending the Nazarite Vow")).
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Israel, the Nazarite vow provided a unique avenue for individuals to express extraordinary devotion to Yahweh, distinct from the hereditary priesthood or the Levites. While the priests were consecrated by birth and ritual, the Nazarite vow was a personal, voluntary commitment, often undertaken for a specified period, though sometimes for life, as seen in the cases of Samson ([Judges 13:7](/judges/13-7 "Judges 13:7 - Samson's Nazarite Calling")) and Samuel ([1 Samuel 1:11](/1_samuel/1-11 "1 Samuel 1:11 - Hannah's Vow for Samuel")). The prohibitions, particularly concerning grape products, were significant. Wine was a common beverage and symbol of joy and prosperity in ancient Near Eastern cultures, including Israel ([Psalm 104:15](/psalm/104-15 "Psalm 104:15 - Wine that Makes the Heart Glad")). Abstaining from it represented a deliberate detachment from common pleasures and a heightened focus on spiritual matters. This act of self-denial visually distinguished the Nazarite, symbolizing their singular dedication to God and a life consecrated beyond the ordinary requirements of the Mosaic Law.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Separate (Hebrew, _nazir'_):** The root of "Nazarite" (נָזִיר, _nazir_) means "one who is separated," "one who is consecrated," or "one who is dedicated." This word encapsulates the essence of the vow: a deliberate act of setting oneself apart from the common, profane, or ordinary, for the exclusive purpose of devotion and service to God. The separation is not merely physical but deeply spiritual, signifying a commitment to holiness that transcends typical societal norms and expectations.
* **Wine (Hebrew, _yayin'_), Strong Drink (Hebrew, _shekar'_):** _Yayin_ (יַיִן) refers specifically to fermented grape wine, the most common alcoholic beverage. _Shekar_ (שֵׁכָר) is a broader term for intoxicating drink, often translated as "strong drink," which could include fermented beverages made from grains (like beer), dates, or other fruits. The pairing of these terms ensures that all forms of intoxicating beverages are forbidden, emphasizing the Nazarite's commitment to sobriety and clear-mindedness as part of their consecrated state.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"He shall separate [himself] from wine and strong drink":** This clause establishes the primary and foundational prohibition. The Nazarite must actively and intentionally distance themselves from all forms of alcoholic beverages. This separation symbolizes a deliberate detachment from worldly indulgences and a commitment to a life of spiritual focus and purity, free from the potential impairment or revelry associated with such drinks.
* **"and shall drink no vinegar of wine, or vinegar of strong drink":** This extends the prohibition to fermented byproducts. Vinegar is produced through further fermentation of wine or strong drink. By forbidding vinegar, the law ensures that even secondary products, which retain the essence of the forbidden items, are avoided, reinforcing the totality of the separation from anything that has undergone the process of fermentation from the vine.
* **"neither shall he drink any liquor of grapes":** The Hebrew phrase for "liquor of grapes" (מִשְׁרַת עֲנָבִים, _mishrat anavim_) literally means "infusion of grapes" or "fermentation of grapes." This broad term covers any liquid derived from grapes, whether it's freshly pressed grape juice (which would naturally ferment) or any other grape-based liquid that might not be explicitly "wine" or "strong drink." This clause ensures a comprehensive ban on all grape liquids, preventing any circumvention of the spirit of the law.
* **"nor eat moist grapes, or dried":** This final clause completes the prohibition by including solid forms of grape products. "Moist grapes" refers to fresh grapes, while "dried" refers to raisins. By forbidding even the raw fruit, the law underscores the absolute and comprehensive nature of the Nazarite's separation from the entire product of the vine, from its very source to all its processed forms. This totality signifies an unreserved dedication.

#### Literary Devices
Numbers 6:3 employs several literary devices to emphasize the absolute nature of the Nazarite's commitment. **Repetition** is evident in the repeated listing of various grape products (wine, strong drink, vinegar, liquor, moist grapes, dried grapes), which serves to underscore the comprehensiveness of the prohibition. This exhaustive enumeration also functions as a form of **merism**, where listing various parts (from fermented liquids to raw fruit) represents the whole – in this case, *all* products of the grape vine. The vine itself carries significant **symbolism** in biblical literature, often representing joy, prosperity, and the common life. By abstaining from all its products, the Nazarite visually and practically embodies a radical separation from common pleasures and a dedication to a higher, spiritual purpose. This act of abstinence is a powerful **metaphor** for spiritual purity and single-minded devotion to God.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The Nazarite vow, as exemplified by the strictures in Numbers 6:3, profoundly illustrates the biblical themes of holiness, consecration, and the call to separation unto God. It demonstrates that true devotion often requires intentional self-denial and a deliberate setting apart from common life and its pleasures. This act of abstinence was not an end in itself, but a means to cultivate a heightened state of spiritual focus, purity, and intimacy with the Divine, symbolizing a life lived in accordance with God's specific commands and a deep desire for His presence. The Nazarite's disciplined life served as a living testament to the possibility of extraordinary devotion within the Israelite community.

* [Leviticus 11:44](/leviticus/11-44 "Leviticus 11:44 - Be Holy, For I Am Holy")
* [2 Corinthians 6:17](/2_corinthians/6-17 "2 Corinthians 6:17 - Call to Separation from the World")
* [Romans 12:1](/romans/12-1 "Romans 12:1 - Living Sacrifice and Renewed Mind")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
While the specific Nazarite vow is not a practice commanded for New Testament believers, the timeless principles embedded in Numbers 6:3 remain profoundly relevant for Christian living. The call to intentional separation from worldly influences and a deliberate, wholehearted dedication of one's life to God's purposes is a consistent biblical theme. This verse challenges us to consider areas in our own lives where we might practice voluntary self-discipline or abstinence, not out of legalism or a desire to earn favor, but as a spiritual discipline to foster greater focus on Christ, cultivate purity, and deepen our devotion to the Lord. It reminds us that true worship often involves sacrifice and a willingness to set ourselves apart for God's glory, echoing the New Testament call to present our bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life might God be calling me to a greater degree of "separation" or self-denial for the sake of deeper spiritual focus?**
* **How does the Nazarite's commitment to purity and holiness inspire me to pursue a more consecrated life in Christ?**
* **What common "pleasures" or indulgences might be hindering my spiritual growth, and how can I practice intentional self-discipline to redirect my focus to God?**

### FAQ

**What was the purpose of the Nazarite vow's prohibition on grape products?**

Answer: The prohibition on all grape products for the Nazarite served multiple purposes, all contributing to the core theme of separation and consecration. Firstly, it distinguished the Nazarite from the general Israelite population, as wine was a common beverage and symbol of joy and prosperity. Abstaining from it marked them as set apart for a special purpose. Secondly, it promoted sobriety and clear-mindedness, essential for a life of intense spiritual focus and devotion. Thirdly, it symbolized a detachment from earthly pleasures and a singular dedication to God, demonstrating a willingness to forego common enjoyments for a higher spiritual pursuit. This comprehensive abstinence from the vine, from its fruit to its fermented products, underscored the totality of their dedication.

**Were all Nazarite vows lifelong, like Samson's?**

Answer: No, not all Nazarite vows were lifelong. While famous examples like Samson ([Judges 13:7](/judges/13-7 "Judges 13:7 - Samson's Nazarite Calling")) and potentially Samuel ([1 Samuel 1:11](/1_samuel/1-11 "1 Samuel 1:11 - Hannah's Vow for Samuel")) were lifelong Nazarites, the law in [Numbers 6](/numbers/6 "Numbers Chapter 6 - The Law of the Nazarite") primarily describes a temporary, voluntary vow that could be taken by both men and women for a specified period. At the completion of the vow, specific rituals and sacrifices were prescribed, as detailed in [Numbers 6:13-21](/numbers/6-13 "Numbers 6:13-21 - Ending the Nazarite Vow"), allowing the individual to return to normal life.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Jesus never formally took a Nazarite vow, His life perfectly embodies the ultimate fulfillment of its spiritual principles, transcending the temporary and symbolic nature of the Old Testament practice. He lived a life of absolute separation from sin and perfect consecration to God, not by external prohibitions, but by His very nature and unwavering obedience to the Father's will ([Hebrews 4:15](/hebrews/4-15 "Hebrews 4:15 - Jesus, Our Sinless High Priest")). The Nazarite's abstinence from the fruit of the vine foreshadows Christ's own declaration at the Last Supper, where He abstained from the cup, stating He would not drink it again until the Kingdom of God ([Matthew 26:29](/matthew/26-29 "Matthew 26:29 - Jesus' Promise of the New Covenant")). This act points to a greater, eschatological fulfillment and a perfect, spiritual communion. Furthermore, the Nazarite's pursuit of purity and holiness finds its ultimate realization in Christ, who is our perfect holiness ([1 Corinthians 1:30](/1_corinthians/1-30 "1 Corinthians 1:30 - Christ Our Wisdom, Righteousness, Sanctification, and Redemption")) and whose atoning sacrifice purifies us from all sin ([1 John 1:7](/1_john/1-7 "1 John 1:7 - Cleansing from Sin Through Christ's Blood")). Believers in Christ are now called to a life of consecration, not through adherence to external vows, but through union with Him, presenting their bodies as living sacrifices, holy and acceptable to God, which is their spiritual worship ([Romans 12:1](/romans/12-1 "Romans 12:1 - Living Sacrifice and Renewed Mind")). In Christ, the separation is not merely from grape products, but from the world's sin and values, for the sake of complete devotion to God.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Luke 1:15

For he shall be great in the sight of the Lord, and shall drink neither wine nor strong drink; and he shall be filled with the Holy Ghost, even from his mother's womb.

1 Timothy 5:23

Drink no longer water, but use a little wine for thy stomach's sake and thine often infirmities.

Amos 2:12

But ye gave the Nazarites wine to drink; and commanded the prophets, saying, Prophesy not.

Judges 13:14

She may not eat of any [thing] that cometh of the vine, neither let her drink wine or strong drink, nor eat any unclean [thing]: all that I commanded her let her observe.

Ephesians 5:18

And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit;

Leviticus 10:9

Do not drink wine nor strong drink, thou, nor thy sons with thee, when ye go into the tabernacle of the congregation, lest ye die: [it shall be] a statute for ever throughout your generations:

Luke 7:33

For John the Baptist came neither eating bread nor drinking wine; and ye say, He hath a devil.